Abstract: A summary of Screen Enlargement programs, as a form of access technology for the visually impaired. The function and purpose of Screen Enlargement programs is explained. The need for screen enlargement programs has produced different types of software programs. The various forms of screen magnification programs are described. Charts are included and referred to that list the features and rate the performance of the various programs. Potential users and questions they need to consider as consumers are addressed. Leading full-featured screen magnification programs on the market are introduced. Additional information on screen enlargement terminology is briefly explained. Lastly, the benefits and drawbacks of screen enlargement programs are presented. Introduction: Access to computer technology is no longer an improbability for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. On the contrary, innovations in computer technology have transformed the lives of persons with visual impairments. Assistive and adaptive technology has literally magnified such areas as information, communication and research making them easily obtainable for individuals who live with disabilities. “Assistive Technology is defined as technological tools (computers and communication devices) used to access education, employment, recreation or communication, living as independently as possible” (http://www.ataccess.org). One such form of Assistive technology are screen enlargement programs. Definition of Screen Enlargement Programs Screen enlargement programs refer “to either a software program loaded into a computer’s memory that will magnify text and graphics that appear in most common applications, or a hardware/software system that [do] the same thing” (www.csun.edu)This is not to be confused withhardwaremagnification systemsthat are magnifying lenses mounted on top of monitors.Magnification programs run simultaneously withthe computer’soperating systemand enlarge “the information on the screen by pre-determined incremental” (http://www.ldao.on.ca/ldao_projects/literacy_manual/screen_magnification.php) levels of magnification. Typically, the enlargement is from 2 to 16 times the original size. Inexpensive screen magnification programs limit magnification to 2X and some of the more sophisticated products offer magnification up to 32X. The price of magnification software (without speech output) can vary from $400-$600. (http://www.ataccess.org ). Types of Screen Enlargement Programs In general, screen magnification programs are available in three types. Primarily, as a “full-featured screen magnifier,” (http://www.afb.org) that enlarges the whole screen. Most of the full featured screen magnification programs now include a text to speech feature. A second type is a program that offers a magnifying lens that enlarges a portion of the screen that is displayed as a moving “viewport”(atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/ Populations/LowVision/magnify.php - 14k) around the mouse. This report includes a chart listing freeware/shareware Screen magnification programs for Windows compatibility only. These programs offer magnification lens or stationary windows. For further information see www.magnifiers.org. Lastly, Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Wista include a basic screen magnification program in the Accessibility Options. This feature enlarges part of the screen in a narrow window and is visible along the top of the screen. Similarly, Macintosh Systems Software includes screen magnifying software called Zoom. This report contains a chart that lists and rates the two Macintosh magnification options mentioned and instructions on starting and setting the Magnifier options for Windows XP. The various screen magnification software programs are used by individuals with different needs and degrees of visual impairment. Seemingly, “the demand for this technology has created a diverse selection of screen enlargement software and hardware solutions” (http://www.closingthegap.com) Potential Users Prospective users of screen enlargement programs include a range of individuals with varying visual disabilities. Some individuals may have low vision and thus require minimal short-term magnification. Their preferred choice may be the built-in Windows accessibility options or Macintosh screen magnification utility. However, when more visual access to the computer is needed the freeware/shareware magnifying lens programs may be the solution. If the magnified area around the mouse does not provide enough screen enhancement then the alternative may be the full-screen magnification program with the screen reader option. It is recommended that individuals that require greater than 6X magnification consider screen magnification software that offers a screen reading component. The added speech synthesizer reinforces what is enlarged on the screen. Often times the magnification may be too great and thus interferes with user proficiency. The screen reader can be used in combination with the magnification software (http://www.ldao.on.ca/ldao_projects/literacy_manual/screen_magnification.php). Considering the different types of screen enlargement programs available, a visually impaired individual may be very selective in choosing a program that will suit their needs. “Before embarking on a decision to purchase a particular device or application, it is necessary to determine the user’s needs. This can be completed by way of a technology assessment” (http://www.warwick.ac.uk/ETS/interactions/vol5no3/Cain.htm). This report includes two types of assistive technology assessment forms used by professionals. One form is specifically for screen magnification and a second for assistive technology for students with visual impairments. Both forms were made possible by the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (http://www.tsbvi.edu). Consumer Questions to Consider Furthermore, the Learning Disability Association of Ontario has comprised a list of questions that one should consider before purchasing a screen enlargement program. · Is it compatible with your computer’s platform? · Does it include cursor enhancement? · What is its maximum magnification? · Does it include screen reading software? · Is it compatible with your printer-can you print enlarged material? · Does it allow for inverted colors? (http://www.Idao.on.ca?Idao_project?literacy/lieracy_manual?screen_magnification.php ) Lastly, many of these programs offer demo downloading. Manufacturers Leading Full-Featured Screen Magnification Programs Presently, there are three leading full-featured screen magnification programs on the market to choose from. These include ZoomText 9.1 from Ai Squared, Magic 11.0 from Freedom Scientific, Lunar Plus 11.7 from Dolphin Computer Access and ZoomWare from Ai Squared. With the exception of ZoomnWare, which is a simple screen magnifier for individuals requiring minimal magnification, the remaining three products have screen reader capacity. This report includes an extensive chart listing the features of all four products, their level of performance and requirements, such as Megs of RAM needed, hard disk space required, video card, processor and the compatible operating system. The company “Ai Squared specializes in screen magnification products and is the ‘granddaddy’ in the field. ZoomText Xtra was the first screen magnification program on the market in 1988” (www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw020). Terminology The terminology used to understand and compare different screen enlargement programs can be confusing, especially if the individual is new to the technology. Therefore, this report contains a glossary of common terms associated with screen magnification programs. Typically, words such as panning, smoothing and tracking may be unfamiliar to the new consumer. Briefly, panning refers to moving the magnified view automatically in any direction. Smoothing refers to reducing or “smoothing” the edges of the letters or image that is magnified. As magnification increases the text may have a jagged edge appearance or stair step appearance. Lastly, tracking is the ability of the mouse to change its magnified area to examine a new field outside the magnified area. Screen Enlargement Benefits and Drawbacks Most certainly, screen enlargement programs have broadened the field for individuals with visual impairments. Especially for individuals who have exhausted all means of low vision aids to access the computer screen. Full feature screen magnifiers that include speech synthesizers add efficiency when the magnification is too large. The use of different color combinations for contrast is advantageous for visual impairments. Individuals whose vision fluctuates may need different levels of magnification as well as individuals who are experiencing diminishing visual acuity. Lastly, screen enlargement programs are easily transferred from one computer work station to another. (http://www.closingthegap.com ) Undoubtedly, the benefits of screen magnification outweigh the drawbacks. However, adding software screen enlargement to a computer will consume “conventional memory in the computer and could cause problems with other software application packages which access the same memory” (p. 4). For those who do not have the speech option, heightened magnification will reduce efficiency for reading and locating information on the screen. For example, the larger the magnification level, the less text will appear on the screen at one time. Thus, the user must use the mouse or pan feature and develop a systematic pattern of scanning, to accure all material is viewed. Additionally, for those who have 12 inch monitors this proposes additional problems with magnified material going off the screen. In this case, purchasing a larger monitor may be costly. (http://www.dinf.ne.jp/doc/english/Us_Eu/conf/csun_99/session0021.html ) Lastly, “some speech synthesizers do not offer sufficient range of pitch and tone or fidelity to be easily understood” (http://www.closingthegap.com ). Conclusion For an individual who is visually impaired, access technology has contributed to their world of information and communication. In particular, screen enlargement programs have become an important form of access technology. So much so, that manufacturer's have designed an assortment of program types to suite the particular needs of individuals who are visually impaired. Consequently, consumers should become well informed about the various programs available and most certainly sample them first hand. Works Cited American Foundation for the Blind. ND Screen Magnification System. Retrieved April 19, 2004, from http://www.afb.org Assistive Technology Training Online Project(ATTO). ND. Students With Low Vision:Magnification Software. Retrieved April 18, 2004, from atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/ Populations/LowVision/magnify.php - 14k - California State University Northridge. ND 2000 Conference Proceedings: Choosing the Right Magnification Program. Retrieved April 15, 2004, from www.csun.edu/cod/conf/2000/proceedings/0043Uslan.htm-14k Closing The Gap. (April/May 1995). Screen Enlargement and Computer Access for persons With Visual Impairments .Retrieved April 19, 2004, from http://www.closingthegap.com Learning Disability Association of Ontario. ND. Screen magnification Software. Retrieved April 18, 2004, from (http://www.ldao.on.ca/ldao_projects/literacy_manual/screen_magnification.php Screen Magnifiers Home Page. ND Screen magnification. Retrieved April 1, 2004, from www.magnifiers.org. Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. ND Steps for Completing the Screen Magnification Software Assessment Retrieved .April 1, 2004, from www.tsbvi.edu/technology/mag-assess.htm - 8k The Alliance for Technology Access. ND. Screen Enlargement Programs. Retrieved April 12, 2004, from http://www.ataccess.org UAce Annual Conference 2002. “The ‘e-curriculum’: ensuring an equitable learning experience for disabled students” Retrieved April 17, 2004, from http://www.warwick.ac.uk/ETS/interactions/vol5no3/Cain.htm). Uslan ,M. Mark (1998) “ Evaluating and Selecting a Windows-Based Screen Magnification System” Retrieved April 17, 2004, from (http://www.dinf.ne.jp/doc/english/Us_Eu/conf/csun_99/session0021.html ) Windows Systems Accessibility Windows has several options built into their Start Menu. These options can be easily accessed by clicking the Start button, click Programs, click Accessories, and lastly click Accessibility. The following options will allow the user to make changes needed to suit their visual needs. Accessibility Wizard walks the user through a series of questions to set their visual preferences. Preferences include changing the icon size, the mouse size, contrast, the cursor size, the font size, the scroll bar size, as well as utilizing the screen magnifier. Magnifier gives a partial screen magnification "window". The user can adjust the size of the magnification window by dragging the edge with the mouse cursor, to a maximum of ½ screen size. Magnification levels are 1-9x. The magnification can be adjusted to follow the mouse, follow the keyboard focus, and to follow the text editing. Lastly, it also allows the user to change the contrast or use white letters on a dark background. Narrator is a very limited screen reader. It will read aloud on-screen text, dialog boxes, menus and buttons in the Windows environment only. Additional options include announcing events on the screen, reading typed characters, and moving the mouse pointer to an active item. On Screen Keyboard displays a keyboard which is accessible using the mouse. (Not typically a need for visually impaired students) Problems Encountered within Various School Districts
In many elementary schools the Start button is locked or is not accessible to students.
In high schools the Start button is typically unlocked; however the Accessibility options are locked.
Many schools do not have speakers, so the audio options are turned off. This leaves the Visually Impaired student with no access to speech output.
Personal Screen Magnification Systems With new advancements in technology many of the companies producing screen magnification software are making this software available on a flash drive or USB drive. This makes all computer systems in your library accessible by inserting the thumb drive into the USB port. Zoomtext by AiSquared, is now producing this type of software however in order for a student to run the software it must be installed thus the student would require administrative privileges. Not currently supporting 64 bit. System Access The Serotek Corporation has partnered with several vendors to provide a full suite of accessibility tools including a screen reader (speech output) and screen magnification software. This software is available completely fee to anyone, anywhere with an internet connection by going to the www.satogo.com. The software is compatible with Windows XP and Vista (all versions including 64 bit), Internet Explorer 6 & 7, MS Office 03 and 07, Adobe Reader and Mozilla Firefox. Keys for k-12 provide a free license for System Access suite to all K through 12 students in the U.S. This same software is available on a flash drive inserted into the USB port. Unlike Zoomtext this is a U3 software programs that does not need to be installed on the hard drive. This software runs within the system tray. For more information please visit www.serotek.com/kk12.html Text-to-Speech Preferences
- Text-to speech engine
- Voice (changes the voice)
- Speaking Rate
- Average Pitch
- Punctuation Magnification
- Select preferences from the system access menu
- Select Screen Magnification Preferences
- Select magnify
- Click the larger or smaller buttons to adjust the magnification size Problems Encountered within Various Districts
Once the website www.satogo.com is accessed it will ask you to click run to access an .exe file. This file has been interpreted has a download in some districts and thus the software will not run.
In some districts the USB drives are not accessible to insert the flash drive
In some cases the security is so controlled U3 software programs are not permitted to run.
Abstract:
A summary of Screen Enlargement programs, as a form of access technology for the visually impaired. The function and purpose of Screen Enlargement programs is explained. The need for screen enlargement programs has produced different types of software programs. The various forms of screen magnification programs are described. Charts are included and referred to that list the features and rate the performance of the various programs. Potential users and questions they need to consider as consumers are addressed. Leading full-featured screen magnification programs on the market are introduced. Additional information on screen enlargement terminology is briefly explained. Lastly, the benefits and drawbacks of screen enlargement programs are presented.
Introduction:
Access to computer technology is no longer an improbability for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. On the contrary, innovations in computer technology have transformed the lives of persons with visual impairments. Assistive and adaptive technology has literally magnified such areas as information, communication and research making them easily obtainable for individuals who live with disabilities. “Assistive Technology is defined as technological tools (computers and communication devices) used to access education, employment, recreation or communication, living as independently as possible” (http://www.ataccess.org). One such form of Assistive technology are screen enlargement programs.
Definition of Screen Enlargement Programs
Screen enlargement programs refer “to either a software program loaded into a computer’s memory that will magnify text and graphics that appear in most common applications, or a hardware/software system that [do] the same thing” (www.csun.edu) This is not to be confused with hardware magnification systems that are magnifying lenses mounted on top of monitors. Magnification programs run simultaneously with the computer’s operating system and enlarge “the information on the screen by pre-determined incremental” (http://www.ldao.on.ca/ldao_projects/literacy_manual/screen_magnification.php) levels of magnification. Typically, the enlargement is from 2 to 16 times the original size. Inexpensive screen magnification programs limit magnification to 2X and some of the more sophisticated products offer magnification up to 32X. The price of magnification software (without speech output) can vary from $400-$600. (http://www.ataccess.org ).
Types of Screen Enlargement Programs
In general, screen magnification programs are available in three types. Primarily, as a “full-featured screen magnifier,” (http://www.afb.org) that enlarges the whole screen. Most of the full featured screen magnification programs now include a text to speech feature. A second type is a program that offers a magnifying lens that enlarges a portion of the screen that is displayed as a moving “viewport” (atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/ Populations/LowVision/magnify.php - 14k) around the mouse. This report includes a chart listing freeware/shareware Screen magnification programs for Windows compatibility only. These programs offer magnification lens or stationary windows. For further information see www.magnifiers.org. Lastly, Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Wista include a basic screen magnification program in the Accessibility Options. This feature enlarges part of the screen in a narrow window and is visible along the top of the screen. Similarly, Macintosh Systems Software includes screen magnifying software called Zoom. This report contains a chart that lists and rates the two Macintosh magnification options mentioned and instructions on starting and setting the Magnifier options for Windows XP. The various screen magnification software programs are used by individuals with different needs and degrees of visual impairment. Seemingly, “the demand for this technology has created a diverse selection of screen enlargement software and hardware solutions” (http://www.closingthegap.com)
Potential Users
Prospective users of screen enlargement programs include a range of individuals with varying visual disabilities. Some individuals may have low vision and thus require minimal short-term magnification. Their preferred choice may be the built-in Windows accessibility options or Macintosh screen magnification utility. However, when more visual access to the computer is needed the freeware/shareware magnifying lens programs may be the solution. If the magnified area around the mouse does not provide enough screen enhancement then the alternative may be the full-screen magnification program with the screen reader option. It is recommended that individuals that require greater than 6X magnification consider screen magnification software that offers a screen reading component. The added speech synthesizer reinforces what is enlarged on the screen. Often times the magnification may be too great and thus interferes with user proficiency. The screen reader can be used in combination with the magnification software (http://www.ldao.on.ca/ldao_projects/literacy_manual/screen_magnification.php).
Considering the different types of screen enlargement programs available, a visually impaired individual may be very selective in choosing a program that will suit their needs. “Before embarking on a decision to purchase a particular device or application, it is necessary to determine the user’s needs. This can be completed by way of a technology assessment” (http://www.warwick.ac.uk/ETS/interactions/vol5no3/Cain.htm). This report includes two types of assistive technology assessment forms used by professionals. One form is specifically for screen magnification and a second for assistive technology for students with visual impairments. Both forms were made possible by the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (http://www.tsbvi.edu).
Consumer Questions to Consider
Furthermore, the Learning Disability Association of Ontario has comprised a list of questions that one should consider before purchasing a screen enlargement program.
· Is it compatible with your computer’s platform?
· Does it include cursor enhancement?
· What is its maximum magnification?
· Does it include screen reading software?
· Is it compatible with your printer-can you print enlarged material?
· Does it allow for inverted colors?
(http://www.Idao.on.ca?Idao_project?literacy/lieracy_manual?screen_magnification.php )
Lastly, many of these programs offer demo downloading. Manufacturers
Leading Full-Featured Screen Magnification Programs
Presently, there are three leading full-featured screen magnification programs on the market to choose from. These include ZoomText 9.1 from Ai Squared, Magic 11.0 from Freedom Scientific, Lunar Plus 11.7 from Dolphin Computer Access and ZoomWare from Ai Squared. With the exception of ZoomnWare, which is a simple screen magnifier for individuals requiring minimal magnification, the remaining three products have screen reader capacity. This report includes an extensive chart listing the features of all four products, their level of performance and requirements, such as Megs of RAM needed, hard disk space required, video card, processor and the compatible operating system. The company “Ai Squared specializes in screen magnification products and is the ‘granddaddy’ in the field. ZoomText Xtra was the first screen magnification program on the market in 1988” (www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw020).
Terminology
The terminology used to understand and compare different screen enlargement programs can be confusing, especially if the individual is new to the technology. Therefore, this report contains a glossary of common terms associated with screen magnification programs. Typically, words such as panning, smoothing and tracking may be unfamiliar to the new consumer. Briefly, panning refers to moving the magnified view automatically in any direction. Smoothing refers to reducing or “smoothing” the edges of the letters or image that is magnified. As magnification increases the text may have a jagged edge appearance or stair step appearance. Lastly, tracking is the ability of the mouse to change its magnified area to examine a new field outside the magnified area.
Screen Enlargement Benefits and Drawbacks
Most certainly, screen enlargement programs have broadened the field for individuals with visual impairments. Especially for individuals who have exhausted all means of low vision aids to access the computer screen. Full feature screen magnifiers that include speech synthesizers add efficiency when the magnification is too large. The use of different color combinations for contrast is advantageous for visual impairments. Individuals whose vision fluctuates may need different levels of magnification as well as individuals who are experiencing diminishing visual acuity. Lastly, screen enlargement programs are easily transferred from one computer work station to another. (http://www.closingthegap.com )
Undoubtedly, the benefits of screen magnification outweigh the drawbacks. However, adding software screen enlargement to a computer will consume “conventional memory in the computer and could cause problems with other software application packages which access the same memory” (p. 4). For those who do not have the speech option, heightened magnification will reduce efficiency for reading and locating information on the screen. For example, the larger the magnification level, the less text will appear on the screen at one time. Thus, the user must use the mouse or pan feature and develop a systematic pattern of scanning, to accure all material is viewed. Additionally, for those who have 12 inch monitors this proposes additional problems with magnified material going off the screen. In this case, purchasing a larger monitor may be costly.
(http://www.dinf.ne.jp/doc/english/Us_Eu/conf/csun_99/session0021.html ) Lastly, “some speech synthesizers do not offer sufficient range of pitch and tone or fidelity to be easily understood” (http://www.closingthegap.com ).
Conclusion
For an individual who is visually impaired, access technology has contributed to their world of information and communication. In particular, screen enlargement programs have become an important form of access technology. So much so, that manufacturer's have designed an assortment of program types to suite the particular needs of individuals who are visually impaired. Consequently, consumers should become well informed about the various programs available and most certainly sample them first hand.
Works Cited
American Foundation for the Blind. ND Screen Magnification System. Retrieved April 19, 2004, from http://www.afb.org
Assistive Technology Training Online Project(ATTO). ND. Students With Low Vision:Magnification Software. Retrieved April 18, 2004, from
atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/ Populations/LowVision/magnify.php - 14k -
California State University Northridge. ND 2000 Conference Proceedings: Choosing the Right Magnification Program. Retrieved April 15, 2004, from www.csun.edu/cod/conf/2000/proceedings/0043Uslan.htm-14k
Closing The Gap. (April/May 1995). Screen Enlargement and Computer Access for persons With Visual Impairments .Retrieved April 19, 2004, from
http://www.closingthegap.com
Learning Disability Association of Ontario. ND. Screen magnification Software. Retrieved April 18, 2004, from (http://www.ldao.on.ca/ldao_projects/literacy_manual/screen_magnification.php
Screen Magnifiers Home Page. ND Screen magnification. Retrieved April 1, 2004, from
www.magnifiers.org.
Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. ND Steps for Completing the Screen Magnification Software Assessment Retrieved .April 1, 2004, from
www.tsbvi.edu/technology/mag-assess.htm - 8k
The Alliance for Technology Access. ND. Screen Enlargement Programs. Retrieved April 12, 2004, from http://www.ataccess.org
UAce Annual Conference 2002. “The ‘e-curriculum’: ensuring an equitable learning experience for disabled students” Retrieved April 17, 2004, from
http://www.warwick.ac.uk/ETS/interactions/vol5no3/Cain.htm).
Uslan ,M. Mark (1998) “ Evaluating and Selecting a Windows-Based Screen Magnification System” Retrieved April 17, 2004, from
(http://www.dinf.ne.jp/doc/english/Us_Eu/conf/csun_99/session0021.html )
Windows Systems Accessibility
Windows has several options built into their Start Menu. These options can be easily accessed by clicking the Start button, click Programs, click Accessories, and lastly click Accessibility.
The following options will allow the user to make changes needed to suit their visual needs.
Accessibility Wizard walks the user through a series of questions to set their visual preferences. Preferences include changing the icon size, the mouse size, contrast, the cursor size, the font size, the scroll bar size, as well as utilizing the screen magnifier.
Magnifier gives a partial screen magnification "window". The user can adjust the size of the magnification window by dragging the edge with the mouse cursor, to a maximum of ½ screen size. Magnification levels are 1-9x. The magnification can be adjusted to follow the mouse, follow the keyboard focus, and to follow the text editing. Lastly, it also allows the user to change the contrast or use white letters on a dark background.
Narrator is a very limited screen reader. It will read aloud on-screen text, dialog boxes, menus and buttons in the Windows environment only. Additional options include announcing events on the screen, reading typed characters, and moving the mouse pointer to an active item.
On Screen Keyboard displays a keyboard which is accessible using the mouse. (Not typically a need for visually impaired students)
Problems Encountered within Various School Districts
Personal Screen Magnification Systems
With new advancements in technology many of the companies producing screen magnification software are making this software available on a flash drive or USB drive. This makes all computer systems in your library accessible by inserting the thumb drive into the USB port. Zoomtext by AiSquared, is now producing this type of software however in order for a student to run the software it must be installed thus the student would require administrative privileges. Not currently supporting 64 bit.
System Access
The Serotek Corporation has partnered with several vendors to provide a full suite of accessibility tools including a screen reader (speech output) and screen magnification software. This software is available completely fee to anyone, anywhere with an internet connection by going to the www.satogo.com. The software is compatible with Windows XP and Vista (all versions including 64 bit), Internet Explorer 6 & 7, MS Office 03 and 07, Adobe Reader and Mozilla Firefox. Keys for k-12 provide a free license for System Access suite to all K through 12 students in the U.S. This same software is available on a flash drive inserted into the USB port. Unlike Zoomtext this is a U3 software programs that does not need to be installed on the hard drive. This software runs within the system tray. For more information please visit www.serotek.com/kk12.html
Text-to-Speech Preferences
- Text-to speech engine
- Voice (changes the voice)
- Speaking Rate
- Average Pitch
- Punctuation
Magnification
- Select preferences from the system access menu
- Select Screen Magnification Preferences
- Select magnify
- Click the larger or smaller buttons to adjust the magnification size
Problems Encountered within Various Districts